MV Leinster was launched in 1968 and operated initially for the British and Irish Steam Packet Company (B+I Line).

[1] Leinster had a multi-windows observation lounge deck with cocktail bar above the bridge which could differentiate her from Munster who also worked Dublin-Liverpool.

The top speed of not less than 20 knots (37 km/h; 23 mph) from four diesel engines allowed the ship to make the daytime crossing from Dublin Port to Carriers' Dock, Liverpool in seven hours.

Ships of the class had bow and stern doors allowing a turnaround time of one hour.

[3] In November 2001 the vessel was sold to Marco Shipping Agency, Dubai and renamed Merdif and finally scrapped at Alang, India in 2004.